David Goetz, 76, an Army Veteran and resident of Silver City, NM, went to be in the arms of our Lord, on Saturday, November 25, 2023 at his residence surrounded by his loved ones. 

On July 19, 1947, David Lee Greene was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to Almeda Helderman and Russell McKinley Greene. In 1953, Almeda and Russell were divorced. David moved to El Segundo, California with Almeda where in 1964, he adopted the last name of his stepfather, George Goetz.

David attended El Segundo High School where he lettered in varsity football, baseball, and track and field. David set several school records including the relay, mile, and two mile. In 1966, David enlisted in the United States Army and served for four years. David obtained the rank of Staff Sergeant and was a decorated combat veteran receiving a Purple Heart, Silver Star, and two Bronze Stars. After his service, David attended El Camino College and obtained his Associates of Arts Degree in 1971.

In 1972, David married Kimberly Solla and fathered Sean Anthony Lee Goetz and Dustin Travis Goetz. After seven years of marriage, David and Kimberly were divorced in 1980. In 1983, David married Lori Gonzalez Sanchez and became a father to Angela Cecilia Saldivar, Veronica Rose Saldivar, and Peter Christopher Sanchez. In 1987, David and Loretta gave birth to Nichole Renee Goetz.

In 1994, David and Loretta settled in Silver City, New Mexico. David later developed prostate cancer that metastasized into his bones. On November 25, 2023, David passed away as a result of his condition. He is survived by his wife, Lori Goetz, sons Sean Goetz (Jennifer), Dustin Goetz (Rebecca), Peter Sanchez (Virginia), and daughters Angela Saldivar, Veronica Abalos (Pat), and Nichole Mohr (Jon), as well as grandchildren Melody, Krista, Jimmy, Peter, Taylor, Haley, Allie, Alexis, Dylan, Cody, Karley, Ariana, Emma, Isabella, Paveen, Lucy, and Molly, and great grandchildren Easton and Lukas.

The funeral service will be Monday, December 4, 2023 at 11:30am at Terrazas Funeral Chapels with Pastor Joseph Gros officiating.  Following the service, David will be laid to rest at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with Full Military Honors.  Pallbearers are Pat Abalos, Dustin Goetz, Peter Sanchez, Peter Sanchez Jr, Alfred Sanchez, and Randy Sanchez.  Honorary pallbearer is Jon Mohr.

David was a loving husband, caring father / grandfather, and provider for his family. He embodied the core values of hard work, honesty, and friendship.

Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777.  To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com .